THREE kidnappers tried to force a schoolgirl into the back of a van after following her as she walked home from a cinema.

The 13-year-old, who was with two friends, managed to struggle free and run away in Swallow Drive, Whalley Range, Blackburn.

Moments earlier one of the would-be kidnappers had shouted "get them in the van" after driving past the girls, turning around and coming to a quick halt.

Police said the girls had been left terrified by the ordeal which is believed to have begun when they left the Vue Cinema off Lower Audley Street at around 11pm on Sunday.

A blue van, possibly a private hire taxi, is thought to have trailed the girls as they walked home through the town centre before the men pounced in Swallow Drive.

Det Sgt Geoff Bromley said: "It is very rare for these types of incidents.

"The girls were terrified and we urge anyone with information to come forward. Fortunately there were no injuries to any of the people involved."

The men were Asian and in their 30s.

Call Blackburn police on 01254 353568 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.